In the manufacturing industry, efficiency is everything. Hence the importance of automation whenever possible. While automated systems such as conveyors and pickers are useful, manufacturers can go a step further by introducing automated elements into their material testing processes.
Exhibitor at the Precision Fair Helmut Fischer Meettechniek B.V., discusses automated material testing systems and their advantages.
What is an automated materials testing system?
Material testing is an essential process for manufacturers in various industries ranging from consumer products to aerospace companies.
This procedure is made up of a variety of tests that determine the composition and other physical properties of specific materials used in manufacturing, such as metals and plastics. These substances are tested in varying conditions, and the data gathered is used to draw conclusions about their integrity, thickness, conductivity, and more.
While many of these tests can be completed manually, Fischer Technology offers a variety of automated systems that can streamline your production process. These instruments are tailor-made to meet your specifications and conduct the tests you need automatically. Not only can this shorten your lead times, but an automated system also provides consistent, reliable results.
Additionally, Fischer Technology’s automated instruments offer solutions for the following applications:
- Roll-to-roll processing, where electronic devices are created on a roll of flexible plastic, flexible glass, or metal foil.
- Conveyor systems, which move products through a warehouse or production facility on automated or semi-automated conveyor belts.
- Liquid streams, which aid in the processing of liquids in the pharmaceutical, food processing, cosmetic, and other industries.
- Wafer processing for semiconductor ships.
Whether your company is looking for a way to streamline your coating thickness measurement, material analysis, or nanoindentation process, Fischer Technology can develop a turn-key system that is fully integrated with your current manufacturing environment.
Benefits of Automated Material Testing Systems
An increasing number of companies are incorporating automation throughout their quality assurance processes as a means of managing increasing quality requirements and short manufacturing cycles. These systems offer a wide array of benefits, including:
Increased Efficiency
Many manufacturing processes require repetitive tasks, especially during the quality assurance phase. Automation eliminates the need for employees to handle these steps, instead passing the responsibility off to a computerized instrument. In most cases, this device can complete tests much faster than a single employee, which can lead to reductions in your overall lead time. Additionally, by taking repetitive tasks off your employee’s plates, they’ll have more time to focus on other areas of your manufacturing process.
More Accurate Results
While your employees may have years of experience running material analysis, coating thickness measurement, nanoindentation, and other tests, mistakes happen. Unfortunately, even minor errors can lead to significant issues with the end product. This is especially true for high-stakes industries, such as the automotive or aerospace sectors.
Luckily, automated solutions can reduce the risk of human error – often eliminating it altogether. Computerized systems offer a level of accuracy and precision nearly impossible for manual operators to achieve. This ensures reliable data and a more consistent quality assurance process. In turn, these benefits yield higher quality end products.
Meet Helmut Fischer at the Precision Fair. Register your free visit here.